Visit Your Local Library for Learning, Services and Fun
Whether it is summer fun you are after, learning opportunities or simply wanting to access local services - your local library is the place to be!
For a start, there is no reason for youngsters to feel bored during the long summer break. There are a wide range of activities taking place from art and craft events to wii sessions. But remember, not all libraries will be running exactly the same programmes, and entry to some events is by ticket only - so please contact your local library first to check!
This is the National Year of Learning and August’s theme is ‘Read the Game’, aimed at building links between sports and reading. You can check out the ‘Reading the Game’ DVD playing at your local library and find out how your favourite sports stars use reading to get ahead. Further details about the National Year of Reading can be found at 
www.yearofreading.org.uk
There is still time to join the Summer Reading Challenge. Packed with ideas and surprises, the annual scheme is popular with children of all ages. Just read six books to get a prize, or take part in one of the special activities such as cup stacking, seaside collage making and mini-beast workshops (all aimed at those aged 8 and above). There are also events aimed at children with additional needs and their carers.
All of the borough's libraries are running story and craft sessions (for 7s and under) and some will be holding Toddlertimes for the under 5’s. Parents and carers are welcome to come along and join in the fun. There are Chatterbooks sessions aimed at 7-10 year olds, as well as Warhammer and Manga events for teenagers (over 10’s).
The wide choice of activities does not stop there either! Make a note in your diaries for the 'Stories at 4' sessions scheduled at Slade Green Library and Crayford Library for the 3-7 year olds. There will also be a Teddy Bears’ picnic for under 5’s, hosted by Thamesmead Library, on Monday 4 August from 11am- 12.45pm.
Other events taking place include monthly reading groups which are a firm favourite with adults. Most libraries run a reading group, so if you enjoy reading and want to share your passion with other like-minded people this is the ideal opportunity. Teenage reading groups for those aged 10 and over are also available.
Meanwhile, computer sessions for all ages are being run at several libraries. The sessions are aimed at introducing beginners to computers, as well as helping to improve general computer skills.
Summer University courses, for children aged 10 and over, are being held at most libraries. These include sessions such as web design, sharing books, improving study skills, extending reading, wii sessions and researching your local area.
There will also be a chance to talk to the police about what is happening in your area. Local Police Community Support Officers (PCSOs) will be visiting some libraries to speak to residents and listen to their concerns. Meanwhile, the Falconwood and Welling Safer Neighbourhoods Policing Team will be holding its surgery at Welling Library on 27 August from 11am.
Last, but not least, don't forget that libraries are also Council contact points where you can order a replacement bin for your recycling, or make arrangements for your unwanted furniture or garden waste to be removed. You can even buy postage stamps and recycling caddy bags!
For more information about activities and services available at your local library, please visit the Council's website at www.bexley.gov.uk/libraries or telephone 020 8303 7777 option 4.
